Ecumenism: A Guide for the Perplexed (Guides for the Perplexed)

They review the chronology of the modern ecumenical movement and highlight the major events, figures, accomplishments, and impasses. This historical survey is followed by critical examinations of three significant challenges for contemporary ecumenical theology and practice. The authors begin the volume by charting out a serviceable definition of ecumenism, a term that has long been a source of confusion for students of theology and church history. Ecumenism: A Guide for the Perplexed is a comprehensive introduction to the methods, achievements, and future prospects of the modern ecumenical movement. Along the way, the authors provide commentary upon the difficulties and prospects that the ecumenical movement might anticipate as it enters this new millennium.

This jewel of a book is an extraordinary resource for all Christians who today hear the Spirit's urgent call to draw near to each other in Christ." - Matthew Levering, Mundelein Seminary, USA. Nelson and Raith's passion for the church's unity will draw in many of those skeptical of ecumenism." - Hans Boersma, Regent College, Canada"Nelson and Raith here offer a perceptive and penetrating analysis of the history, accomplishments, and difficulties attending the ecumenical movement. In briskly written chapters, entirely suitable for students, they summarize the debates over "basic theological difference", over the ongoing reception of agreements, and over the ultimate goal of ecumenical dialogue. Particularly noteworthy is the claim that contemporary ecumenism is unintelligible apart from the contributions of evangelical Christianity. Erudite and warmhearted, they explain why ecumenism is an imperative for all Christians i

David Nelson is Acquisition Editor for Baker Academic and Brazos Press, USA.Charles Raith II is Assistant Professor of Religion and Philosophy and Director of the Paradosis Center for Theology and Scripture at John Brown University, USA.. R